unblock

Everyday

1. To unblock something is to clear it so that things can pass through again, such as a drain, a sink, a road or a nose. tree →
2. On a phone, app or website, to unblock someone is to let them contact you or see you again after you blocked them. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life it is about clearing blocked sinks and drains. In online safety lessons, children learn they can block people who are unkind and only unblock them if they feel safe; a trusted adult can help. Phrases: «unblock the sink», «unblock a number», «unblock someone».

Examples

• Dad used a plunger to unblock the toilet. tree →
• We need a plumber to unblock the drain. tree →
• A steamy shower can help unblock a stuffy nose. tree →
• She decided to unblock her cousin after they made up. tree →
• Only unblock someone if you feel safe talking to them again. tree →
• The council sent a truck to unblock the road after the snow. tree →

Note

Regular verb: unblocked. «Un-» means undo, so unblock = undo a block.